In early 20th century in London there was an alternative hydraulic "power grid" with plants (aka pumps), storages and an underground distribution network of pipes. A building, for example, could connect to high pressure water mains and use it to power elevators. Electricity eventually won, but it's interesting to see an idea coming back.
Zeppelins next!
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Hydraulic_Power_Company